Huntsville expanding greenway network with North Huntsville, Monte Sano trails

HUNTSVILLE — The Rocket City took another big step Thursday toward building a connected citywide trail system.

At its regular meeting, the Cty Council approved construction contracts for two greenways that will expand access, enhance safety and create stronger links between some of the community’s most beloved destinations.

• Meek Greenway – Meek Greenway is an essential piece of the city’s vision for a north-to-south “greenway spine.” Awarded to Alabama Rogers Group for $1,797,960, this project will complete a 1.78-mile multi-use, 12-foot-wide path from Stallworth Drive at Alabama A&M University to U.S. 72. The project also includes a paved parking lot. Passing through some of Huntsville’s most established neighborhoods, the extension is designed to strengthen connections from North Huntsville to downtown via the Skybridge/greenway, linking Brahan Spring and John Hunt Parks, and ultimately creating a continuous corridor to Ditto Landing.
• Tollgate Greenway – Awarded to Grayson Carter & Son for $1,760,700, this project will connect the Bankhead Parkway parking lot to Monte Sano State Park. By doubling the length of the existing trail, the 1.65-mile paved path will give pedestrians and cyclists a safer, smoother route to the top of Monte Sano. Improvements also include wider paved shoulders, making the area more accessible to all users. The Land Trust of North Alabama raised $500,000 and Huntsville Utilities contributed $150,000 toward the cost of this project.

“These projects are about more than just adding trail miles,” said Dennis Madsen, manager of Urban and Long-Range Planning. “We’re building access to assets that people already love – destinations like A&M, Ditto Landing, downtown and Monte Sano State Park.

“These connections will open opportunities for even more residents and visitors to enjoy Huntsville’s natural and cultural assets.”

The city’s Greenway Master Plan envisions nearly 260 miles of interconnected trails. Today, the network includes 46 miles of greenway, with 38.55 miles planned in the next one to five years and 173 miles identified as long-term visionary projects.

By steadily adding miles and improving links to popular destinations, Huntsville is creating one of the Southeast’s most livable, accessible greenway systems.